Attachment for motor vehicles with rear windows

ABSTRACT

An air flow device for positioning in the rear windows of closed motor vehicles and boats. The device has a frame which fits within the window or an unclosed portion of the window. Means are provided for attaching the device frame to the window frame. A transparent plate is attached at its bottom to the bottom portion of the device frame on its side inside of the motor vehicle. The transparent plate is positioned at its top away from the top of the device frame (or the vertical plane of the window). A gap exists between the top of the device frame and the top of the plate. There are two side members, each of which is attached to a set of corresponding ends of the device frame and the plate. The side members prevent lateral air flow into the motor vehicle.

This is a continuation of application Ser. No. 194,224, filed on Oct. 6,1980, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,346,648, issued on Aug. 31, 1982, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 118,444, filed on Feb. 4,1980, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,326,451, issued on Apr. 27, 1982.

BACKGROUND OF THIS INVENTION

1. Field of This Invention

This invention relates to the field of ventilators or air flow devicesof motor vehicles.

2. Prior Art

When the rear cab window of a pick-up truck or the like is open, theflow of air can cause soreness of the neck and arms and blow a person'shair. The elimination of these disadvantages and occupant annoyanceshave been the objective of prior, but unsuccessful, inventors, as oftenthe best previous solution had been to shut the rear cab window.

Some of the prior art ventilators allowed the entry of water into thecar or motor coach during rainstorms.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,895,109 (Suddards) teaches a ventilator for the rearwindow of a closed motor car, coach and the like. The ventilator has alouver for positioning in the aperture usually occupied by the rearlight or rear window. The louver is a number of strips pivotally mountedeach about one edge and operatively connected for movement together. Theventilator also has a deflector screen associated with the louver so asto provide an opening at its upper position. There is a movable flap forcontrolling the flow of air through the ventilator. The movable flap ismounted for pivotal movement with its free edge cooperating with theupper edge of the deflector screen.

The deflector screen of Suddards is positioned on the inside of the carand the louver is positioned on the outside of the car. Suddards statesthat its air flow pattern is from inside of the car to outside of thecar. To achieve this flow path, it is quite apparent that Suddards wouldhave to open at least one side or front window, at least partially.Flaps or strips D cannot rise above the horizontal due to the top frameof the ventilator, due to the central pivot mounting of the flaps anddue to connecting bar F. Since Suddards states his air flow path is frominside of the car outwards, there is no need or desire for flaps D torise above the horizontal.

Flaps D of U.S. Pat. No. 1,895,109 (Suddards), which do not rise abovethe horizontal, would effectively render the air flow device of thisinvention useless by blocking the air flow from over the top of the car,down the back of the car and around, up and through the air flow deviceof this invention. Suddards asserts an air flow through its ventilatorfrom inside of the car to the outside--applicant achieves an air flowthrough applicant's air flow device from outside of the car to theinside. The air flow device of this car does not use louver flaps, evenones that can rise above the horizontal. Louver flaps would not passstate and federal vehicle safety inspections. Glass louvers present asafety problem for a person riding in the bed of a pick-up truck. Wherea camper is mounted in the bed of a pick-up truck, the louvers wouldtotally block air flow and may not even fully open.

Suddards does not have any side panels, which allow air flow through thetruck at head and shoulder level of the driver or passenger. This wouldcause sore arms, necks, etc., and blown hair.

In Suddards, since its ventilator has no side panels, the louver (flaps)must be closed to keep water and snow out. The mounting or installationof Suddards' ventilator would not be easy. There would be poor airquality in a vehicle having Suddards' ventilator. Suddards' ventilatorwould not be maintenance free, would not be easy to install or would notbe easy to remove or clean. In modern vehicles, the rear window isdesigned altogether differently, making it difficult to installSuddards' ventilator. Suddards' ventilator is not applicable for currentrecreation vehicles--the design of windows and/or rear windows makesSuddards' ventilator nonapplicable for the current design of suchwindows. Suddards' ventilator has no removable openings or louver flapsfor rear view.

In order for passengers to ride in a recreation camper of a pick-uptruck there should be communication with the cab of the recreationvehicle as well as with those in the recreation camper. With theSuddards' louvers, state and federal regulations would not permitlouvers in a rear light or rear window of such recreation vehicle andcamper. Louvers in a recreation vehicle would hinder communication withpassengers in the recreation camper.

BROAD DESCRIPTION OF THIS INVENTION

An object of this invention is to provide a new and improved air flowdevice for the rear aperture of motor vehicles. Other objects andadvantages of this invention are set out herein or are obvious herefromto one ordinarily skilled in the art.

The objects and advantages of this invention are achieved by the deviceof this invention.

This invention involves an air flow device for closed motor vehicles andboats for positioning in the rear aperture thereof. The device orventilator has a frame which fits within the aperture of an unclosedportion of the aperture. Usually the aperture is a rear window. Meansare provided for attaching the device frame to the aperture frame. Aplate is attached at its bottom to the bottom portion of the deviceframe on its side inside of the motor vehicle or the boat. Thetransparent plate is positioned at its top away from the top of thedevice frame (or the vertical plane of the aperture). There is a gapbetween the top of the device frame and the top of the plate. At leastthe majorit and center section of the plate is transparent. There aretwo side members, each of which is attached to a set of correspondingends of the device frame and the plate. The side members prevent lateralair flow.

When the rear cab window of a pick-up truck or the like is open, theflow of air can cause soreness of the neck and arms and blow a person'shair. These disadvantages and occupant annoyances are eliminated by thedevice of this invention without having to shut the rear vehicle window.

When the device of this invention is installed in the rear cab window,the window can be left open during rainstorms. Even during a severerainstorm lasting several hours, no water will enter the cab of thevehicle from the opened rear window. The side windows can be practicallyshut (or open about 1/2 inch on each side) during rainstorms, with theresult that the side and rear windows and windshield will not fog. Theair temperature in the cab will remain comfortable without the use of anair conditioner or dehumidifier. The use of this invention allows one tocontinue driving during a rainstorm while other vehicles have to pulloff the road.

For trucks or other motor vehicles having a sliding rear window, the airflow device is easily installed. The installation can be temporary orcan be made permanent (as the owner desires). Many present dayrecreation vehicles, trucks and other motor vehicles have sliding rearwindows.

The air flow device of this invention can be made out of all plastic orout of all aluminum or out of all metal or combined plastic withaluminum or plastic with metal. It can be produced out of an aluminumframe with center made of a durable transparent plastic or glass. Itsbasic materials are aluminum or plastic or both combined or metalcombined plastic with aluminum or plastic with metals. It is lightweightin nature and durable--this feature makes it maintenance free. Thenature of the air flow device makes it simple to install and remove in amotor vehicle or recreation vehicle. The air flow device allows air toflow in the vehicle without hindering passengers riding in the vehicle.The air flow device allows air to be distributed in vehicle orrecreation vehicle which results in making the driver and/or passengersvery comfortable. It is advisable that the center of the air flow devicebe constructed of clear plastic so as to give the driver of the vehiclea clear view of rear traffic. The center or base should be made of aclear durable plastic in order for the air flow device to pass state andfederal inspections. Since some vehicles contain a closed-in camper thesight from the rear view mirror is obstructed on such type of vehicleand is replaced by side view mirrors. It would be up to the choice ofthe owner if he desires the air flow device to be all aluminum or allplastic model or metal or a combination of all three. The air flowdevice can be designed and constructed to accommodate all vehiclesand/or recreation vehicles with rear sliding windows. At the top of theair flow device, where the air enters the vehicle, a screen can beinserted to prevent foreign matter or insects from entering the vehicle.

Installation of the air flow device in a sliding rear window can be donein several ways. If the vehicle owner desires to put the air flow devicein the base of the window permanently, the apron of the air flow devicecan be eliminated. The owner of the vehicle can attach by drilling holesin the vehicle and attaching the air flow device to the base of thewindow permanently with rubber in between the air flow device and thebase of the window. It is advisable to use self-tapping screws. Thisarrangement permits the rear window to be closed or opened as desired.To temporarily install the air flow device, the following steps areused: open the rear sliding window of the vehicle or recreation vehicle,and easily slide it into such window.

In one embodiment of this invention the air flow device is for a closedmotor vehicle or boat which has a rear aperture containing a windowframe. Two outer window sections, which are stationary, are mounted inthe end portions of the window frame. Such two outer window sections areof such size as to form an opening therebetween. Two inner windowsections are slidably mounted in the window frame. The two inner windowsections are of such size as to close off the opening when the two innerwindow sections are slid together and to fully open the opening when thetwo inner window sections are slid sufficiently far apart. The air flowdevice includes a base plate and means attached to the base plate forattaching the device to the bottom portion of the window frame.Preferably the means of attaching the device of the bottom portion ofthe window frame (and wall of the motor vehicle) are parallel,downward-extending flat members which are attached on their tip ends tothe base plate. The device also has two vertical side plates, eachhaving one end attached to the end of the base plate, and a top plateattached to the other end of each of the vertical side plates at aposition back from the side of the two vertical side plates so that partof the device extends through the opening. The top plate contacts theinside surface of the top portion of the window frame. There is a backplate which is attached at its bottom to the portion of the base plateinside of the motor vehicle. The back plate is positioned with its topaway from the top plate or the vertical plane of the opening therebyforming a gap between the top plate and the back plate. There are twovertical side strips, each attached at a right angle to one of thevertical side plates. The unattached vertical edge of each of thevertical side strips aligns with the end of one of the outer windowsections. The end of each of the inner window sections slidably fitsbehind one of the vertical side strips thereby holding the device inposition and preventing inward motion of the device. At least the backplate is transparent--preferably most of the parts are transparent. Thetwo side plates are generally triangular in shape and are attached onone edge to the back plate, thereby preventing lateral air flow into thevehicle.

One embodiment of this invention is a window assembly containing an airflow device for a closed motor vehicle or boat for positioning in therear aperture thereof. The window assembly includes a window frame, twoouter window sections which are stationary and mounted in the endportions of the window frame, the two outer window sections being ofsuch size as to form an opening therebetween, and the air flow devicemounted in the opening. The air flow device includes a base plate, and abottom lip attached on top to the base plate and on bottom to the bottomportion of the window frame. Preferably the window frame is aconventional rubber window molding (see FIG. 24). There are two verticalside plates, each having one end attached to the end of the base plate.There is also a narrow top horizontal plate attached on each end to thevertical side plates on the side towards the opening. A top vertical lipis attached to the edge of the top plate towards the opening. Part ofthe ends of the top vertical lip are attached to the side plates. A backplate is attached at its bottom to the portion of the base plate insideof the motor vehicle. The back plate is positioned with its top awayfrom the top horizontal plate or the vertical plane of the openingthereby forming a gap between the top horizontal plate and the backplate. Also, there is an extension of the edge of each of the sideplates facing the opening--such extensions provide means of sealinglyengaging the end of both of the outer window sections facing theopening. At least the back plate is transparent--preferably most of theparts are transparent. The two side plates are generally triangular inshape and are attached on one edge to the back plate, thereby preventinglateral air flow into the vehicle.

Preferably the extension of the edge of each of the side plates isL-shaped. The leg thereof which is parallel to the outer window sectionsealingly engages the end of one of the outer windows. More preferablythe extension of the edge of each of the side plates contains two shortparallel strips which are perpendicular to the extension. The two shortparallel strips sealingly engages therebetween the end of one of theouter windows.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THIS INVENTION

Referring to the drawings in which numerals of like character designatesimilar parts throughout the several views:

FIG. 1 is a partly-exploded perspective view of the air flow device ofone embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 2 is a back view of the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the device of FIG. 1 mounted in a rear windowof a motor vehicle;

FIG. 4 is a side sectional view of the device of FIG. 1 along line 4--4in FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a top elevational view of the device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of the device of FIG. 1 with amounting bracket shown;

FIG. 7 is a side view, partially cut away, of the device of FIG. 1mounted, with a mounting bracket in place, in a rear window of a motorvehicle;

FIG. 8 is a back elevational view of the air flow device of anotherembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 9 is a side sectional view of the device of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the air flow device of anotherembodiment of this invention;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of two of the air flow devices of stillanother embodiment of this invention mounted in the two rear windows ofa van;

FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the device of FIG. 11 mounted ina rear window of a van;

FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the device of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a partial sectional view of the device of FIG. 11 along line14--14 in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a partial sectional view of the device of FIG. 11 along line15--15 in FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 is a partially-exploded perspective view of the device of FIG.11;

FIG. 17 is a top sectional view of a van showing the air flow paths whentwo of the devices of FIG. 11 are mounted in the rear windows of thevan;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the air flow device of a furtherembodiment of this invention mounted in the rear window of a pick-uptruck;

FIG. 19 is a front elevational view of the device of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is a side elevational view, partially cut away, of the device ofFIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is a side sectional view along line 21--21 in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a back elevational view of the air flow device of a stillfurther embodiment of this invention;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a side partial sectional view along line 24--24 in FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is a top partial sectional view of line 25--25 in FIG. 22; and

FIG. 25a is a top partial sectional view of an alternative arrangementof that shown in FIG. 25.

The preferred embodiments of this invention are illustrated in thedrawings.

In FIG. 1, numeral 100 represents the air flow device of a preferredembodiment of this invention. Frame (or base plate) 102 containsdownwardly-extended (back) lip 104 and two upwardly-extended lips 106(rain shields). Other frames can be used in place of frame 102, butfrane 102 is preferred. For example, the frame can be rectangular inshape, extending entirely around the inside perimeter of the vehicle'srear window. Lip 104 contains padding strip 108, and each of lips 106contains padding strip 110. Lip 104 is located on the back side ofdevice 100, which fits on the outside of truck cab 116--see FIG. 3.Frame 102 also contains two downwardly-extending (front) members 112,one located near each end of frame 102. The angle between the plane offrame 102 and members 112 is typically 70 degrees. Each of members 112contains padding strip 114. Members 112 are located on the front side ofdevice 100 and fit on the inside of truck cab 116--see FIG. 3. Lip 104and members 112 are preferably made of a material (such as steel orpreferably aluminum) which has a slight degree of springiness. Lip 104and members 112 are slightly inclined towards each other in thedirection of their lower extremities (see angle α illustrated in FIG.4), that is, they show slight convergence. Lip 104 typically has alength of 41/8 inches; and lips 112 typically have a length of 105/8inches. This allows device 100 to tightly fit over lower wall 118 oftruck cab 116.

Each of members 112 has extended portion 120, which is offset slightlyfrom the vertical. Plate unit 122 is attached at its lower extremity toextended portions 112 of members 122. Plate unit 122 includes front wall124 and two end (side) walls 126. Front wall 124 is slanted so that itstop rim is offset from the perpendicular to the horizontal plate inwhich frame 102 is located. The angle of offset from the perpendicularis preferably 13 degrees, but can generally be between 5 and 30 degrees,or so. The angle of offset is critical to the extent that sufficient airinflow is allowed and the angle does not become excessive, hencedangerous to the passenger and destroying the desired air flow pattern.End walls 126 are triangular shaped, with their outward facing sidesalso being slanted so that the outward facing sides are almost flushwith the inner plane of rear window 128 of vehicle 116. See FIG. 3. Theother facing sides of end walls 126 contain lips 130, which areessentially covered by padding strips 132. Rear window 128 is afour-section window--the two outer sections are stationary and the twoinner sections are slidable, overlaying the two outer sections when rearwindow 128 is in the open position. Each of lips 130 (i.e., paddingstrips 132) are flush (contact) with one of the outer stationarysections of window 128 just beyond the opening left when the two innersections of window 128 have been slid into the open position. See FIG.3.

Front wall 124 contains aperture 134, which is covered by window pane136 mounted by means of retainer casing 138 located around the bottomand two side rims of aperture 134. Retainer casings 138 should not haveany holes in them so as not to divert the air flow in an undesirablemanner. Window pane 136 can be constructed of glass, a durabletransparent plastic (preferably Plexi-glass) or the like.

The arrows in FIG. 3 illustrate the air flow pattern over the top oftruck cab 11, through air flow device 100 and into the top portion oftruck cab 116.

Concerning U.S. Pat. No. 1,895,109 (Suddards), the stated air flowpattern is the reverse of the air flow pattern of the air flow device ofthis invention. In a recreation vehicle containing a camper mounted onthe bed of a pick-up truck, the passengers are permitted to ride in thecamper. With the air flow device of this invention the driver is able tocommunicate with those riding in the camper. The window can be removedfor this purpose--Suddards' ventilator would not permit this.

In the 1930's, safety regulations were different. With Suddards'ventilator, the view is obstructed for rear view traffic for thedriver--this is not so with the air flow device of this invention.

Under normal conditions, the device of this invention cannot be broken,and can be removed in seconds, and the windows can be closed. WithSuddards' ventilator, if something would happen to the mechanism thatopens or closes it, it would have to be replaced. With the design andconstruction of today's vehicles, it is almost impossible for Suddards'ventilator to be used.

1930's vehicles had many holes in the floor, e.g., with the clutch, footbrake, hand brake, floor shifting and battery case; this permittedSuddards to draw air and fumes up through the vehicle's floor. With allwindows closed, this allowed Suddards to form a vacuum in the vehiclethus permitting all of the air to be drawn up through the floor of suchvehicles. With the air flow device of this invention, there is novacuum. With this invention, fresh flow of air over the recreationvehicle enters all the time thus making the recreation vehicle verycomfortable and the air pleasant. Suddards' ventilator is like anexhaust fan; it draws the air out from all three sides. The air flowdevice of this invention is not an exhaust exit or an air exit; the airfrom the air flow device is drawn in and distributed in the cab of thevehicle.

The air flow device of this invention is used as an attachment forwindow of a recreation vehicle and the like--it is not used in place ofthe window--the window is not removed and still is in use. Suddards'ventilator is used in place of the rear window of cars and motor coachesdesigned in the late 1920's.

The air flow device of this invention is one solid component; itrequires no cables, chains, rods or louvers to operate; it is made of asolid material (with only a possible cap or flap on top of the device).

The purpose of the air flow device of this invention is to supply thedriver and/or passengers in the vehicle with a continous supply of air.This is accomplished without the use of louvers on its structure. Whenvehicle side windows are closed, Suddards' device is not in use inmodern vehicles with the side windows open or closed, the air flowdevice of this invention provides a continuous flow of air. In pick-uptrucks, the rear window is located higher than the driver or passengerthus permitting the air to flow over and above the heads of theoccupants of such vehicles.

Cover 140 is composed of screen 142 and from 144. Cover 140 fits overtop of the gap at the top of air flow device 100 (inside of truck cab116). Screen 142 keeps out insects and does not seriously impede theflow of air. Cover 140 can be bolted to air scoop device by means ofholes 146 and 148.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, air flow device 100 can be further attachedto truck cab 116 by means of bracket arm 150 and adjustable L-shapedpiece 152. The upper segment of piece 152 contains padding 154.

Preferably all of the parts of air flow device 100 (except for windowpane 136) is constructed of aluminum. Preferably all of the parts of theair flow device of this window are 1/8 inch thick.

In the air flow device, all metal to metal joinders are preferablywelds. Preferably, non-abrasive padding material (strips) are providedfor all surfaces in contact with paint.

Some of the advantages of the air flow device of this invention are:flow of air over the head of a passenger and stops the blowing of hairand prevents sore necks, shoulders, arms, etc.; there are no drafts; nowater from rain can enter the cab; no water enters the cab while thetruck (motor vehicle) is in motion or is standing still; preventswindows from fogging up in a rainstorm (when the motor vehicle ismoving); even with the side windows closed, there is continuous airflow; is lightweight, easy to install and easy to remove; better airquality in the cab of the truck (motor vehicle) while driving; no chanceof carbon monoxide poisoning in the cab of the truck due to the fact therear window is continuously open and has continuous flow of airtherethrough; and if all of the air flow device located in the rearwindow itself is made of plexiglass, one can see through all of the rearwindows.

As used herein the term motor vehicle includes pick-up trucks, flat bedtrucks, vans, four-wheel drive vehicles (flat backed), truck cabs,pick-up trucks and the like with campers mounted thereon, trucktrailers, and recreation vehicles including travel trailers, motor homesand campers. As used herein the term boats includes those having avertical, flat rear wall on the cabin.

In FIG. 8, numeral 200 represents the air flow device of anotherpreferred embodiment of this invention. Plate unit 202 is attached atits lower extremity to downwardly-extending members 204. Plate unit 202includes front wall 206 and two end (side) walls 208. Front wall 206 isslanted so that its top rim is offset from the plane of the rear windowof truck cab 210--see FIG. 9. End walls 208 are triangular shaped, withtheir outward facing sides also being slanted so that the outward facingsides are almost flush with the inner plane of rear window 212 ofvehicle 210. See FIG. 8. The outer facing sides of end walls 208 areessentially covered by padding strips 214. Rear window 212 is a foursection window, the two outer sections being stationary and the twoinner sections being slidable, overlaying the two outer sections whenrear window 212 is in the open position. Air flow device 200 is attachedto truck cab 210 by means of screws 218 through holes 216. Otherattachment means can be used. Members 204 are welded to front wall 206.Members 204 contain padding strips 220.

Front wall 204 contains window aperture 222. Window pane 224 is hingedlyattached to reinforced top lip 226 of front wall 204. See FIG. 9. Forexample, a piano hinge can be used--one half formed at the top of frontwall 204 and the other half secured to the top of window pane 224.Spring clips 228 (or other means for keeping the window closed) securehinged window pane 224 in place. Window pane 224 has padding strips 230.

In FIG. 10, numeral 300 represents the air flow device of the mostpreferred embodiment of this invention. Frame (or base plate) 302contains downwardly-extended (back) lip 304 and two upwardly-extendedlips 306. Each of lips 306 contains padding strip 308. Lip 304 islocated on the back side of device 300, which fits on the outside of thetruck cab. Frame 302 also contains outwardly slanted lip 310 (it isdirected into the truck cab). Inside frame 312 contains outwardlyslanting lip 314 and ledge 316 that mate with frame 302. Inside frame312 contains two downwardly-extending (front) members 318, one locatednear each end of frame 312. Each of members 318 contains padding strip320. Members 312 are located on the front side of device 300 and fit onthe inside of the truck cab. Lip 304 and members 312 are preferably madeof a material (such as, aluminum) which have a slight degree ofspringiness. Lip 304 and members 312 are slightly inclined towards eachother in the direction of their lower extremities. This allows device300 to tightly fit over the lower wall of the truck cab.

The bottom of transparent window unit 322 is mounted between lip 310 andlip 314 by rivets 324 or the like. Window unit 322 is preferably made ofclear plexiglass (or other similar material can be used) and includesfront wall 324 and two end (side) walls 326. Front wall 324 is slantedso that its top rim is offset from the perpendicular to the horizontalplate in which frame 302 is located. End walls 326 are triangularshaped, with their outward facing sides also being slanted so that theoutward facing sides are almost flush with the inner plate of the rearwindow of the vehicle cab. The outer facing sides of end walls 326contain lips 330, which are essentially covered by padding strips 332.The rear window is a four section window, the two outer sections beingstationary and the two inner sections being slidable, overlaying the twoouter sections when the rear window is in the open position. Each oflips 330 (i.e., padding strips 332) are flush (contact) with one of theouter stationary sections of the window just beyond the opening leftwhen the two inner sections of the window have been slid into the openposition. See FIG. 3.

FIG. 11 shows two air flow devices 400 mounted in the rear windows ofvan 402. This is another preferred embodiment of this invention. FIG. 17shows the air flow pattern into air flow devices 400, through van 402and out side windows 404.

Device 400 contains frame (or base plate) 406, around the edge of whichis mounted rubber rim 408. See FIG. 15. Frame 406 fits in groove 410 ofrim 408; lip 412 of the rear window of van 402 fits in groove 414 of rim408. Frame 406 is preferably made of plexiglass (or aluminum). Windowplate unit 416 is mounted in the middle of frame 406. Plate unit 416includes front wall 418 and two end (side) walls 420. Front wall 418 isslanted so that its top rim is offset from the plane of the rear window.End walls 420 are triangular shaped, with their outward facing sidesalso being slanted so that the outward facing sides are almost flushwith the inner plane of the rear window of van 402. Rear curved portion422 helps for air gap 424. Cover 426 is hingedly mounted at 428 on thetop of side walls 420 at 430 to cover gap 424. Curved members 432,pivotally mounted on one end at 434, contains curved slot 436. Lock unit438 is mounted at the top edge of side walls 426 and fits through curvedslot 436 (which allows movement or locking of cover 426).

FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of rear light window 416 of a van.The rear flight or rear window plate 416 is held in place by two sidesor retainer casing 441 and bottom retainer casing 442.

The air flow device of this invention has a number of advantages. Thedevice lessens chance of carbon monoxide poisoning in the cab of thevehicle due to the continuous flow of air. Some vehicles have faultyexhaust systems and while driving carbon monoxide may enter the vehicle;however, by using the device there is a continuous flow of air whichprevents the driver from becoming nauseated or becoming sleepy, therebypreventing an accident. Flow of air is directed along the top of thevehicle cab preventing sore necks, shoulders, arms, etc., and preventingoccupant discomfort (e.g., stops the blowing of hair). The deviceeliminates drafts in cab of vehicle. When the device is used, no waterfrom rain can enter cab of vehicle via the rear window (regardless ofwhether the vehicle is in motion or standing still). The device preventswindows from fogging in a rainstorm while the vehicle is in motion. Evenwith the side windows of the cab closed, the device still permitscontinuous air flow with rear window open. The device is lightweight,easy to install and easy to remove. The device causes better air qualityin cab of vehicle while driving. The device is maintenance free orrequires little maintenance (e.g., no rusting, no painting, no parts toreplace, no adjustment, long lasting and durable). Even though installedin the rear window of a vehicle, sight traffic to the rear (i.e., rearview) is not impaired. The device cannot be removed from the outside ofvehicle, which makes unauthorized entry through the rear windowextremely difficult at best.

In FIG. 18, numeral 500 represents the air flow device of a furtherpreferred embodiment of this invention. Device 500 is completely made ofa clear material, preferably plexiglass, except for the screen, pads andany other indicated part. Device 500 includes downwardly-extended (back)lip 502, base plate 504, front plate 506 and side plates 508 and 510.Padding strips 512 are located on the inside surface of lip 502. Paddingstrip 514 is located on the bottom surface of base plate 504. The anglebetween the plane of frame 504 and the plane of front plate 506 istypically 120 degrees. Both of members 516 has an upper portion 518,which is attached to the front of front plate 506, and a lower portion520, which extends downwardly (approximately parallel to lip 502).Padding strip 522 is located on the inside of each member 516.

Front plate 506 is slanted so that its top rim is offset from theperpendicular to the horizontal plate in which base plate 504 islocated. The angle of offset from the perpendicular is preferably 24degrees, but can generally be between 5 and 30 degrees, or so. The angleof offset is critical to the extent that sufficient air inflow isallowed and the angle does not become excessive, hence harmful to thepassenger and destroying the desired air flow pattern. Side plates 508and 510 are triangular shaped, with their outward facing sides alsobeing vertical or slanted as needed so that the outward facing sides arealmost flush with the inner plane of rear window 524 of vehicle 526. SeeFIG. 20. The upper corner of each of side plates 508 and 510 in thedirection away from front plate 506 has small rectangular piece cut out.See FIG. 20. Narrow plate 528 is attached on each end to the verticallip of the rectangular cut out pieces of side plates 508 and 510.Padding strip 530 is mounted on the side of narrow plate 528 away fromfront plate 506. Screen 532 is mounted in the top open channel of device500 by attachment to strips 534 and 536.

Side pieces 538 and 540, which are long and narrow, are mounted on sidepieces 508 and 510, respectively, at a slight angle to the vertical.Padding strip 542 is mounted on the side of side pieces 538 and 540towards front plate 506. The outer edge of padding strips 542 aretapered. Vertical triangular sections 544 reinforce side pieces 538 and540.

Rear window 524 is a four-section sliding window--two outer sections 546and 548 are stationary and two inner sections 550 and 552 are slidable,overlaying two outer sections 546 and 548 when rear window 524 is in theopen position. The four sections (546, 548, 550 and 552) of window 524are mounted in window frame 554 (metal track).

To mount air flow device 500 in rear window 524, inner window sections550 and 552 are slid apart to expose the full expanse of the rear windowopening. The end of window section 546 towards the opening has trimstrip 556; and the end of window section 548 towards the opening hastrim strip 558. The width of air flow device 500 is slightly less thanthe window opening between trim strips 556 and 558. The bottom portionof air flow device is inserted into the window opening from inside oftruck 526. The ␣ formed by lip 502, base plate 506 and lower portion 520(of member 526) is placed over lower rim of window 524 (including thelower portion of frame 554). See FIGS. 18 to 20. Narrow plate 528(actually padding strip 530) is flush against the inside side of theupper portion of window frame 554--this keeps air flow device 500 frommoving on out the window opening. The end of window section 550 towardsthe opening has trim strip 560; and the end of window section 552towards the opening has trim strip 562. See FIG. 21. Inner windowsections 550 and 552 are moved into the opening as far as possible sothat trim strips 560 and 562, respectively, are flush against sideplates 508 and 510. Padding strips 542 on side pieces 538 and 540 arealso flush against the trim strips 560 and 562. The inward position ofinner window pieces 550 and 552 hold air flow device 500 in place frombeing pushed inwards into truck 526.

To remove air flow device 500, inner window sections 550 and 552 areslid to side and device 500 lifted out of position into the truck cab.As shown in FIG. 21, inner windows 550 and 552 can not be slid out ofposition except from the inside of truck 526.

In FIG. 22, numeral 600 represents the air flow device of a stillfurther preferred embodiment of this invention. Device 600 is completelymade of a clear material, preferably plexiglass, except for the screen,pads and any other indicated part. Device 600 includes horizontal baseplate 602, front plate 604, side plates 606 and 608, bottom lip 610,back top lip 612, narrow horizontal top plate 614 and middle top lip616. The angle between the plane of base plate 602 and the plane offront plate 604 is typically 120 degrees. Front plate 604 is slanted sothat its top rim is offset from the perpendicular to the horizontalplate in which base plate 602 is located. The angle of offset from theperpendicular is preferably 20 degrees, but can generally between 5 and30 degrees, or so. The angle of offset is critical to the extent thatsufficient air inflow is allowed and the angle does not becomeexcessive, hence harmful to the passenger and destroying the desired airflow pattern. Side plates 606 and 608 are triangular shaped. The uppercorner of each of side plates 606 and 608, in the direction away fromfront plate 604, has small rectangular piece cut out. See FIG. 23.Narrow top plate 614, back top lip 612 and middle top lip are attachedon each end to the corresponding lips of the rectangular cut out piecesof side plates 606 and 608.

Screen 618 is mounted in the top open channel of device 600. Top cover620 is pivoted at 622 and provides a closure for the top open channel ofdevice 600 when one desires not to use air flow device 600.

Rear window 624 of vehicle 626 has two stationary outer window sections628 and 630 mounted in conventional rubber molding window frame 632.There is an opening between outer window sections 628 and 630 in whichair flow device 600 is mounted. Window frame 632 is best shown in FIG.24, which shows bottom lip 610 and back top lip 612 mounted in windowframe 632. Side plates 606 and 608 have L-shaped vertical extensions 634and 636, respectively. Legs 638 and 640 of extensions 634 and 636,respectively, are parallel to outer window sections 628 and 630,respectively. Padding strips 642 are mounted on the side of legs 638 and640 facing the outer window sections. As best shown in FIG. 25, leg 640sealingly engages the end portion of outer window section 630. (Outerwindow section 628 is similarly sealingly engaged).

FIG. 25a shows a further method of sealingly engaging the ends of theouter window sections. Legs 644 and 646 are perpendicular to side plate608 and are parallel to outer window section 630. U-shaped padding strip648 is mounted on the inside surfaces of legs 644 and 646, etc. Legs 644and 646 sealingly engage the end of window section 630. (Outer windowsection 628 is similarly sealingly engaged.)

FIGS. 22 to 25 illustrates an embodiment where the air flow device ispermanently mounted in a window assemblage.

What is claimed is:
 1. A window containing an air flow device for aclosed motor vehicle or boat for positioning in the rear aperturethereof, which comprises a window frame, two outer window sections whichare stationary and mounted in the end portions of said window frame,said two outer window sections begin of such size as to form an openingtherebetween, and said air flow device mounted in said opening, said airflow device comprising a base plate, a bottom lip attached on top tosaid base plate, and on bottom to the bottom portion of said windowframe, two vertical side plates, each having one end attached to the endof the base plate, a narrow top horizontal plate attached on each end tothe vertical side plates on the side towards the opening, a top verticallip attached to the edge of said top plate towards said opening, part ofthe ends of said top vertical lip being attached to said side plates, aback plate which is attached at its bottom to the portion of said baseplate inside of said motor vehicle and is positioned with its top awayfrom said top horizontal plate or the vertical plane of said openingthereby forming a gap between said top horizontal plate and said backplate, and an extension of the edge of each of said side plates facingsaid opening which provides means of sealingly engaging the end of oneof said outer window sections facing the opening, at least said backplate being transparent, said two side plates being generally triangularin shape, being attached on one edge to said back plate and preventinglateral air flow.
 2. The window as claimed in claim 1 wherein saidextension of said edge of each of said side plates is L-shaped, the legthereof which is parallel to said outer window section sealinglyengaging said end of one of said outer windows.
 3. The window as claimedin claim 1 wherein said extension of said edge of each of said platescontains two short parallel strips which are perpendicular to saidextension, said two short parallel strips sealingly engagingtherebetween said end of one of said outer windows.
 4. An air flowdevice for a closed motor vehicle or boat for positioning in the rearaperture thereof, a rim unit fitting around the entire rim of said rearaperture, at least a portion of the top part of said rim unit having alongitudinal groove therein and at least a portion of the part of saidrim unit having a longitudinal groove therein, which comprises (i) aplate, which has a central aperture and which fits within said rearaperture, the top and bottom edges of said plate fitting in said topgroove and said bottom groove, respectively, in said rim unit, (ii) aslanted plate, which is attached at its bottom to the bottom edge ofsaid central aperture of said plate and which extends upwardly andinwardly therefrom, thereby forming a gap between the top of saidslanted plate and the vertical plane of said rear aperture, and (iii)two side members, each of which is attached on one side to said plateand on the other side to said slanted plate, thereby preventing lateralair flow.
 5. An air flow device as claimed in claim 4 wherein said plateis essentially flat.
 6. An air flow device as claimed in claim 4 whereinsaid plate is convex in the direction away from the side of said plateon which said two side members are attached, and in the horizontal axisof said plate.
 7. An air flow device as claimed in claim 4 wherein saidslanted plate is transparent.
 8. An air flow device as claimed in claim4 wherein a member having an aperture therein is positioned over saidgap.
 9. In combination, a closed motor vehicle or boat, said motorvehicle or boat having a rear aperture, a rim unit fitting around theentire rim of said rear aperture, at least a portion of the top part ofsaid rim unit having a longitudinal groove therein and at least aportion of the part of said rim unit having a longitudinal groovetherein, and an air flow device positioned in said rear aperture, saidair flow device comprising (i) a plate, which has a central aperture andwhich fits within said rear aperture, the top and bottom edges of saidplate fitting in said top groove and said bottom groove, respectively,in said rim unit, (ii) a slanted plate, which is attached at its bottomto the bottom edge of said central aperture of said plate and whichextends upwardly and inwardly therefrom, thereby forming a gap betweenthe top of said slanted plate and the vertical plane of said rearaperture, and (iii) two side members, each of which is attached one sideto said plate and on the other side to said slanted plate, therebypreventing lateral air flow.
 10. An air flow device combination asclaimed in claim 9 wherein said plate is essentially flat.
 11. An airflow device combination as claimed in claim 9 wherein said plate isconvex in the direction away from the side of said plate on which saidtwo side members are attached, and in the horizontal axis of said plate.12. An air flow device as claimed in claim 9 wherein said slanted plateis transparent.
 13. An air flow device as claimed in claim 9 wherein amember having an aperture therein is positioned over said gap.
 14. Anair flow device combination as claimed in claim 9 wherein at least onestationary window section and/or at least one non-stationary windowsection is mounted in said rear aperture and leaves an opening in saidrear aperture, in which said air flow device is positioned.
 15. An airflow device combination as claimed in claim 14 wherein said at least onenon-stationary window section is slidably mounted in said rim unit. 16.An air flow device as claimed in claim 14 wherein two outer windowsections, which are stationary, are mounted in the end portions of saidrear aperture, the edges of each of said outer window sections which areadjacent to an edge of said rear aperture can form part of said rim,said two outer window sections being of such size as to form an openingtherebetween, and said air flow device is positioned in said openingformed by said two outer window sections.
 17. An air flow device asclaimed in claim 14 wherein at least one inner window section isslidably mounted in said top longitudinal groove and said bottomlongitudinal groove of said rear aperture, said at least inner windowsection is of such size as to close off said opening when said at leastone inner window section is slid into the closing position and to fullyopen said opening when said at least one inner window section is slidinto the open position.
 18. An air flow device as claimed in claim 14wherein two inner window sections are slidably mounted in said toplongitudinal groove and said bottom longitudinal groove of said rearaperture, said two inner window sections are of such size as to closeoff said opening when said two inner window sections are slid togetherand to fully open said opening when said two inner window sections areslid sufficiently far apart.